Takamatsu is often treated as a ferry terminal, but it is a practical base with one of Japan's major landscape gardens, waterfront castle history, regional udon, and strong connections across Shikoku and the Seto Inland Sea. The useful plan protects a city day before assigning every morning to another island.
Give Ritsurin the cool hours
Ritsurin Garden is large and detailed enough for a long morning. Start early in warm months, allow time for ponds, viewpoints, and a tea stop, then return toward the center for lunch. Tamamo Park and the remains of Takamatsu Castle explain the city's relationship to the sea and fit naturally near the port.
Sanuki udon ranges from quick self-service shops to destination stops with limited hours. Choose places that fit the day's route rather than turning the meal into a distant detour.
Build island days from ferry facts
Naoshima, Teshima, Shōdoshima, and smaller islands require different ferries, ports, museum reservations, and closing-day checks. Select one island plan, confirm every connection, and keep the final ferry home visible. Weather can disrupt water transport, so retain a Takamatsu alternative.
The Setouchi art-island itinerary shows the network at a realistic pace. Start with Takamatsu essentials, then plan your Takamatsu trip around one complete city day and ferry schedules verified for the actual date.
If the trip continues through Shikoku, reserve enough Takamatsu time before departing for Iya, Matsuyama, or Kōchi. The city works best as more than a ferry platform, and onward rail or bus timing deserves its own planning block.